Officials confirm flesh-eating New World screwworm parasite found in US wildlife
The USDA has confirmed the presence of the flesh-eating New World screwworm parasite in a Texas elk. This follows a series of detections in livestock and wildlife, raising concerns about the spread of the pest from Mexico.
Why it matters
The re-emergence of this parasite poses a significant threat to both wildlife and the agricultural industry, potentially impacting beef supply and prices.
A New World screwworm and other botfly specimens under the microscope at a lab in Kerrville, Texas. A New World screwworm and other botfly specimens under the microscope at a lab in Kerrville, Texas. Texas Officials confirm flesh-eating New World screwworm parasite found in US wildlife USDA says screwworm found in elk in Texas, and warns hunters and ranchers to be vigilant to help stop spread
Prefer the Guardian on Google The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) said on Wednesday it had confirmed the first detection of flesh-eating parasite the New World screwworm in US wildlife in an elk in Pecos county, Texas .
The elk was located on a game ranch and was reported after being harvested by a hunter, the USDA said in a statement.
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